And Shearer has now hailed the way the veteran approaches his career in a bid to keep up with his striking rivals.

Writing for The Sun, the Newcastle legend said: "If more players knew the emptiness that comes after their final ball is kicked, they might follow the likes of Ibrahimovic more closely in the way he looks after himself so they can extend their career as long as possible.

"Because this is a supreme athlete and supreme example to all players, young and old.